Limited Masterworks Monkey with Young

Augustus the Strong (1670-1733) envisioned the "Japanese Palace" in Dresden as the largest and most magnificent porcelain palace in the world. Beginning in 1731, MEISSEN worked intensively on new creations, including life-size animal sculptures that rank among the outstanding works of 18th-century porcelain art. One of them is the model "Monkey Mother with Young" by Johann Gottlieb Kirchner (1706-after 1738). Although the sculptor initially struggled with working in three-dimensional form, he developed-alongside Johann Joachim Kaendler (1706-1775)-into a master of Meissen's large-scale animal sculptures.

The modelers found inspiration for their sculptures in scientific illustrations, in natural history cabinets with taxidermied animals, and in the menageries and aviaries around Moritzburg Castle. Unlike Kaendler, Kirchner focused less on dynamic movement and more on characteristic expression. His "Monkey Mother with Young" depicts a stressed mother with realistic, almost human features. The portrayal of the mother animal with her young is both humorous and emotionally touching-a combination of keen observation, vitality, and theatrical staging typical of the Late Baroque period.

Limited to 25 pieces worldwide, this hand-painted large-scale sculpture is an exceptional collector's item of rare exclusivity. At 59 centimeters tall, it creates an imposing presence and becomes a striking focal point in sophisticated interiors and important porcelain collections. Modeled and painted with extraordinary precision, the sculpture reveals the exceptional artistry of the MEISSEN manufactory. Finely crafted details, expressive facial features, and the lively posture give the figure remarkable presence and testify to masterful craftsmanship.